What is the definition of combustion?

Combustion is defined as the self-sustaining process of rapid oxidation of a fuel. This process involves the chemical reaction between a fuel, typically a hydrocarbon, and an oxidizer, most often oxygen in the air. During combustion, heat and light are released as the fuel transforms into gases, such as carbon dioxide and water vapor, along with other byproducts depending on the nature of the fuel and combustion conditions.

Understanding combustion is critical in various fields, particularly in fire science, as it explains how fires are initiated, sustained, and extinguished. The nuances of combustion also play a significant role in developing fire prevention strategies, understanding energy production, and even addressing environmental concerns related to emissions.

The other choices do not accurately capture the primary characteristics of combustion; for instance, boiling a liquid is a phase change and does not involve oxidation, while the breakdown of solids into gases or the interaction of metals with air pertains to different types of chemical reactions and processes.